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Cross-stitch thread, also known as Mouliné thread, is one of the most widely used types of thread on the market. It is a cotton thread with a lot of shine and softness, presented as a thick thread that can be divided into six smaller strands. This allows us to control the thickness of the thread and create different effects in our embroidery (usually, cross-stitch uses 2 or 3 strands).
In this article, I’ll share some secrets about this popular thread in the world of embroidery and cross-stitch, and give you tips on how to care for and use it.
1. Main Brands and Cross-Stitch Thread Options
The big brands
The leading brand is DMC. They offer a range of over 500 colors, and the thread quality is truly premium. Here’s why it’s considered top-quality thread:
- Long-staple cotton: The quality of fabrics and threads made with cotton depends on the fiber length used to produce it. The longer the fibers, the higher the quality.
- Double mercerized: Mercerization is a process applied to thread to enhance its quality, strength, and dye absorption. Done with caustic soda, it makes the fiber softer, silkier, and less prone to shrinking or fraying. Double mercerization is used to create luxury textile products, aiming for maximum shine, durability, and color definition.
At Una Buena Pieza, we use DMC Mouliné thread in both our patterns and kits. In the kits, because we want you to enjoy a top-notch embroidery experience, and in the patterns, because DMC is a globally available brand, making it easy to find the colors you need.
Smaller brands
Despite DMC’s dominance, there are now many independent brands producing amazing colors. I’ve had the chance to work with some of them, and here are my thoughts:
Pirate and Robin
A small US-based company with original, contrasting color schemes. I especially recommend their multicolor threads—they are truly unique. You can buy Robin threads here: https://piraterobin.com/
Weeks Dye Works
Founded in 1994 by Miranda Weeks, the company started by dyeing threads in a bathtub. Today, they have a full team and modern facilities, offering nearly 600 color combinations. Their threads are incredible; I especially love their pink and lilac shades. Check out their threads here: https://weeksdyeworks.com/
The Gentle Art
Perfect if you want to give your projects a vintage, slightly worn look. These threads come from a small family business in the US and are a pleasure to work with. Visit their site here: https://thegentleart.com/
Hilos Flojos
A small company based in Mexico that works with colors taken directly from nature. Their textile products are wonderful, and their website has many sets to make choosing easier (you’ll want to buy everything!). See their work here: https://www.hilosflojos.com/
What I love most about smaller brands is that they experiment with color stories that bigger brands might avoid for commercial reasons. Supporting smaller businesses allows you to enjoy embroidery while discovering new colors.
2. Caring for Your Cross-Stitch Threads
Proper storage
Storing your threads properly is important to keep them free from dust and dirt. Most people use plastic boxes where threads are kept on small plastic or cardboard bobbins. There are also more decorative options, like wooden boxes that can hold bobbins.
Threads can also be stored as skeins, in boxes or drawers. For specific projects, other storage options like floss drops and floss cards can be used (here are a couple of examples from small businesses I love: Kate Blandford and Colorfully Sarah).
Identify by brand and number
Keeping your threads labeled is essential for maximizing their use. You’ll be able to use them in future projects requiring that exact color, and it also prevents buying duplicates.
3. Using Cross-Stitch Thread
Cutting the right length
A length from fingertip to elbow (45–50 cm / 18–20 in) is ideal for cross-stitch. Even if you’re only stitching a small area, cut this length and roll the excess back onto the bobbin to make the most of your thread.
Separating the needed strands
Typically, two strands are used for cross-stitch, though some prefer three. Always follow the pattern’s instructions and use the recommended number of strands.
Threading your needle easily
Three tips to thread your needle easily:
- If the thread is frayed, cut the end straight with scissors. A neat end is much easier to thread.
- Hold the thread between your thumb and index finger until it’s almost invisible, and pass the needle between your fingers—the thread will slide through easily.
- If threading stresses you out, use a needle threader. They come in many types, even automatic. Find the one you like and enjoy stitching.
Extra: Avoiding tangles and knots
Some tricks to prevent tangles:
- Separate strands slowly, allowing the thread to unwind naturally.
- Don’t rush: pulling too fast often causes knots. Match your stitching speed to the thread.
- If pausing strands mid-project, always leave them on the front side of the work—they’ll be easy to locate and won’t tangle.
- If a knot forms, take a deep breath and examine it: most untangle by gently pulling one end. If not, don’t worry—finish the stitch, remove the knot, and continue as if nothing happened.
Conclusion
Cross-stitch threads are very easy to care for and store. You just need a small space and lots of enthusiasm to grow your collection. Today, I probably have around 10 boxes full of threads, and it makes me so happy to own such a unique and special collection, with contributions from family and memories from mercerías around the world.
I highly encourage having not just the colors needed for projects, but also colors that simply make you happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thread for cross-stitch? Mouliné thread. It’s mercerized cotton thread divided into six strands. There are many brands, with DMC being the most well-known.
How can I make my thread last longer? Store it properly in boxes, keeping it free from dust and dirt. There are practical and affordable plastic boxes available.
What if I have trouble threading my needle? Trim the end and remove frays. Hold it between your thumb and index finger until almost invisible, then slide the needle through. If problems persist, use a needle threader—it’s easy and inexpensive.
How much thread should I cut for stitching? A length from fingertip to elbow (45–50 cm / 18–20 in) is ideal for cross-stitch.
Hi! I’m Anna, and this is the Una Buena Pieza blog :)
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Big hugs,
Anna